Flemington beckons again for Melbourne Cup hero Knight's Choice
Knight's Choice is set to grace Flemington once more this weekend, returning to the scene of his most significant triumph nearly two years ago.
The unexpected winner of the 2024 Melbourne Cup will continue his path toward Australia's most prestigious race in Saturday's $300,000 Group 2 The Bart Cummings (2520m).
Following his Melbourne Cup victory, Knight's Choice did not compete again during the 2024/25 racing season. His attempt to defend his Cup title last spring was cut short after a single run, a sixth-place finish in the So You Think Stakes at Moonee Valley, and he raced solely in Queensland at the conclusion of the last season.
The Extreme Choice gelding's two starts this current campaign resulted in a 12th in the Heatherlie Stakes (1700m) and a ninth in the Naturalism Stakes (2000m) at Caulfield. The prospect of returning to Flemington will stir fond recollections for training partners Sheila Laxon and John Symons.
"It will be fantastic to get him back there, that's what racing's all about," Laxon commented.
"It's a big ask for him on Saturday, but you have your dreams and we've got another one with him."
Laxon is likely anticipating the seven-year-old's return to Headquarters with even greater enthusiasm due to the improved weather outlook for Melbourne this week. Forecasts indicate up to 25mm of rain on Thursday, potentially another 20mm on Friday, with showers expected on raceday.
"That's not going to be too his liking, but we've got to do the mileage to get him there (Melbourne Cup)," Laxon stated.
"He likes a Good 3. He really relishes it, but as soon as he gets his toe on the ground he doesn't use his great stride like he does on a firm track."
Knight's Choice encountered less-than-ideal conditions last start in the Naturalism Stakes. Despite being restricted by traffic for much of the race, he was only beaten by 2-1/2 lengths.
"It was a great run at Caulfield, I was surprised to see him (race near the) lead like he did and then he couldn't get a run in the straight, so he could have finished a lot closer than he did," Laxon elaborated.
"But it was a fittening run, and that's what he needs.
"I am so pleased with what stage he's at and he pulled up very strongly and well after that run at Caulfield."
"He's got top weight and, certainly, if it's wet he won't be a chance, but if it's dry and he gets an inside draw and smokes his pipe on the way around, it might be a different story."
Knight's Choice, who carries 56.5kg for the Melbourne Cup, is set to carry 60kg in The Bart Cummings. A significant number of his competitors are also aiming for the ballot exemption that secures a start in the renowned 'two-miler' on the first Tuesday in November. Explore the leading betting sites for potential wagers on the event.
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